Charleston, South Carolina — A campaign to rehumanize homelessness is gaining traction around the country, including in the Lowcountry.
“When we have the opportunity to speak with people who are homeless, it allows us to focus not on statistics but on their stories,” said Rev. Dr. Marion Platt, Executive Director of Star Gospel Mission.
Ahead of World Homelessness Day, Star Gospel Mission in downtown Charleston is participating in the “24 Hours on a Bench” program, a storytelling effort that invites people to sit down, listen, and learn from the stories of those experiencing homelessness.
“Right now in the United States, there are somewhere close to 800,000 people experiencing homelessness,” says Dr. Platt. “Here in Charleston, there are 400 people each night who go without housing throughout the year.”
They state that their purpose is to foster empathy and understanding through open, face-to-face communication. The program collaborates with local missions, ministries, and community organizations to promote common humanity and build awareness across North America.
“These are people who are not lazy,” Dr. Platt explained. “They’re people who want the same shot at housing that you and I have.”
The Star Gospel Mission, Charleston’s oldest faith-based nonprofit, is livestreaming their participation, bringing discussions about homelessness to the forefront of the community.
“Charleston is known as the Holy City. Not because of our steeples, but because of the hospitality we provide guests. “And I believe that hospitality and welcome should be extended to the most vulnerable among us,” Dr. Platt stated.
According to the most recent South Carolina State of Homelessness Report, the number of adults experiencing homelessness increased by 11% over the prior year, from 3,608 in 2022 to 4,053 in 2023, highlighting the need for community awareness.
The proportion of pupils without secure housing has risen by 13%, with 13,770 students experiencing homelessness or housing insecurity in 2023.
The message from advocates is straightforward: change is possible.
“Show up as an advocate at city council meetings.” “Organize with your faith community or other organizations to learn about solutions to homelessness,” Dr. Platt advised.
The “24 Hours on a Bench” event began at 9 a.m. on October 9 and will end at 9 a.m. on October 10, coinciding with World Homelessness Day.
Dr. Marion Platt, Executive Director of Star Gospel Mission, will spend “24 Hours on a Bench” at Citadel Square Baptist Church, where local advocates invite the community to listen, learn, and support.
